Unveiled at the North American International Auto Show In Detroit alongside the 2018 WRX model (which is sporting similar changes), the broadly revised and improved 2018 Subaru WRX STI will be available on the Canadian market as of early summer, with an MSRP of $39,495.
Propelled by a 2.5L turbocharged BOXER engine generating 305 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, the latest edition of the WRX STI is fitted with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission as well as Subaru’s symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system. The latter features a revised multi-mode driver controlled centre differential and an Active Torque Vectoring system that improves the car’s performance when cornering and makes handling more precise. All of this is fitted into a light, rigid structure and controlled by new, larger brakes and high-performance ABS.
All versions of the 2018 WRX STI will also feature optimized suspension tuning, a more powerful battery, redesigned front bumper and door trim, modernized front grille with new lower grille bezel featuring air intakes, new roof bracket and steering-responsive headlights that improve cornering visibility. Inside, the cabin has been made quieter, the dashboard and central console trims modernized, and the gauge cluster revised. A new 5.9-inch multi-function high-resolution screen display has also been added.
Here’s a breakdown of the full lineup:
• - 2018 Subaru WRX STI starting at $39,495
• - 2018 Subaru WRX STI Sport starting at $41,795 (adds new 19-inch alloy wheels, side- and rear-vehicle detection systems, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, large rear spoiler and more);
• - 2018 Subaru WRX STI Sport-tech starting at $46,595 (adds option of large wing spoiler or lip spoiler, Recaro performance front seats with leather and ultrasuede trim and new StarLink applications like Yelp, Best Parking and Glympse).
Take a moment to check out the 2018 Subaru WRX STI in this spectacular video alongside its little sister!